Otoineppu is Hokkaido's smallest village, with a population of about 600. This village is home to the nationally acclaimed Otoineppu Art & Craft High School, a place that nurtures talent through art and crafts. All its students live in dormitories within the village. Supporting these high school students' activities is the "Oto-Kou Support Squad," set to be established in 2024. This article introduces the initiatives of the Otoineppu Art & Craft High School and the Oto-Kou Support Squad.

What is Otoineppu Art & Craft High School?

Otoineppu Village, "Hokkaido's smallest village" with a population of just 600

Otoineppu Village, where the late Bikky Sunazawa, a leading figure in Japan's sculpture world, was active, is a village steeped in art and culture. The Otoineppu Art & Craft High School, located in this village, attracts students passionate about art from all over the country. They hone their skills and expressive power while living in dormitories. Graduates are active in various fields, including as furniture makers, artists, manga artists, and paper-cutting artists. The presence of these high school students is a great source of hope for Otoineppu Village.

The Reason Behind the 'Oto-Kou Support Squad'

During his time at Yubari City Hall, Wataru Sakon worked as the right-hand man to then-mayor, current Governor Naomichi Suzuki.

The founder of the newly established "Oto-Kou Support Squad" is Wataru Sakon, a native of Otoineppu Village and a graduate of the Otoineppu Art & Craft High School. After graduating from university, he spent nine years working on town revitalization at Yubari City Hall before going independent in April 2023. He is now engaged in revitalization efforts in Otoineppu Village. "I launched this project recognizing the importance of learning environments and the significance of community-wide support," says Sakon.

Supporting the Students' Future! Key Activities of the 'Oto-Kou Support Squad'

The "Oto-Kou Support Squad" aims to create learning opportunities for students to succeed both in Japan and abroad, and to provide concrete support to nurture their creativity. Its activities are broadly divided into three areas.

1. Expanding Learning Opportunities

Special classes will be held by artists and craftspeople from Japan and overseas, creating new learning opportunities for the students.

2. Providing Venues for Presenting Works

In the past, an exhibition and sale of graduates' works, along with workshops, were held at the "YEAST" gallery in central Tokyo, attracting about 100 visitors. The "Oto-Kou Support Squad" initiative will also create opportunities for supporters to connect directly with students and graduates.

3. Exchange Events with Supporters

At the Otoineppu Village Eco-Museum, where works by sculptor Bikky Sunazawa are displayed, high school students volunteer to run a cafe space. This location is planned to host exchange events between the students and members of the support squad.

A Crowdfunding Campaign for the 'Oto-Kou Support Squad' is Now Live!

Mr. Sakon is currently running a crowdfunding campaign for the "Oto-Kou Support Squad." By participating, you can support the growth and creative activities of the high school students. Rewards include feature articles on the students and an invitation to an exchange event at the Otoineppu Village Eco-Museum. Additionally, local specialty products and original works by the students are also available.

Finally, a message from Mr. Sakon:

Why not join in supporting the future of these students as they take flight from Otoineppu Village?

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